Emergency Contact Information (ECI)

Standard Door Signs for Laboratories and Other Hazardous Locations

An issue common to many laboratories and other hazardous locations, is not having current and effective emergency contact information posted at the entry doors, as required by the Fire Code, by the University, and by our Engineering Safety Policy.  This emergency contact information is used by emergency responders, police, firefighters, and safety officers to locate key personnel and obtain critical information in emergency incidents.   Prompt contact with knowledgeable persons can help to save lives and prevent loss of facilities, property, equipment, and instrumentation.

Emergency Contact Information (ECI)must be clearly posted on the entry door(s).  ECI signs should clearly identify: the Department/Division; a descriptive name for the lab; name of the Responsible Faculty/PI with telephone numbers (office, home, cell, other), office location, and email.  It is recommended that an alternate emergency contact be included.  Students should not generally be designated as an emergency contact.

Click here to download the approved standard ECI we have distributed in our safety committee meetings.  It is formatted in MS Word, for Avery 5388, 3" by 5" index card sheets that are available from Stores.  A database program would be more efficient for departments with large numbers of labs.  Database applications can be formatted to print to the 3" x 5" card sheets.

ECI door signs should be mounted in CARD HOLDERS at 5 feet above the floor, to the right side of the door or frame.  Signs should be dated when posted and updated as necessary to stay current.  Emergency information cards should be updated at least annually, and when personnel changes occur.  Using card holders allows for quick and convenient updates.

TAMU Purchasing & Stores has agreed to stock the brushed aluminum 3x5 cardholder, Item Number 445005.  Other colors and larger quantities are available by special order.  Contact TAMU Purchasing & Stores at 979-845-4570 or 845-3891, or  http://purchasing.tamu.edu/  (Go to the on-line Stores Catalog and enter the item number.) 

Your Emergency Contact Information will be evaluated on all future safety inspections and audits.  Please check today to ensure that all laboratories and other hazardous locations are posted (shops, chemical rooms, storage rooms, waste accumulation areas, etc.)